Uses for Bad CD & DVD Discs

• If you've ever let a pile of bad CDs and DVDs collect dust on a shelf, reluctant to throw them in the trash, take heart. You can find uses for your scratched or broken discs, ranging from recycling them to repurposing them in your home. You'll also avoid filling a landfill with something that not only doesn't break down easily, but also releases toxic byproducts as it does so.

Recycling

• Recycle your old CDs and DVDs to save energy and prevent air and water pollution associated with manufacturing these discs from scratch. Various organizations will recycle or reclaim the materials in your old CDs and DVDs, including polycarbonate plastic, aluminum and even gold. The service is often free aside from the cost to ship out your used discs. The Compact Disc Recycling Center of America, Back Thru the Future and Polymer Recycling Ltd. are just a few of the organizations providing this service. For a local option, ask your neighborhood music retailer to launch a DVD/CD drop-off recycling program.

Household Use

• If your discs are still intact, set them on a coffee or end table as drink coasters. If your discs are badly scratched and unattractive, glue on some fabric swatches or old patches first. For a decorative wall hanging, glue several old discs in rows on a piece of poster board. Frame the poster with an attractive frame, and hang near your entertainment center.

Ornaments

• Glue on old jewelry and beads with hot glue. Glue on a string at the top, looped into a hook. Hang them on your Christmas tree or on an outdoor tree during the holidays. As outdoor ornaments, the CDs and DVDs will resist the elements.

In the Garden

• If you have shaded parts of the garden that require more sunlight, position several discs down on the ground or against a fence near the plants. The reflection from the sun will bring additional sunlight to the shaded areas.

In the Woods

• Take them on your next hike or camping trip. If you get lost, you can use the discs to signal for help. If you're hiking with a group, you also can use the discs to mark your path as you go, so all parties can find their way; just be sure to collect them later. You can also use your discs for an outdoor treasure hunt with kids to mark the spots where you've hidden some "treasures."